We now have greater clarity on the direction in which discussions are moving.

This means coherence in some areas.

You have indicated the principles and key functions that should guide the strengthened institutional framework, namely:

integration of the three pillars,

enhanced review and reporting on progress with implementation, and

effectively addressing continuing, new and emerging challenges.

But we are not yet where we need to be.

On the broader institutional framework: Several Member States have called for an enhanced role of the General Assembly and ECOSOC, in addressing the sustainable development agenda.

A number of you have also expressed support for creating a high-level sustainable development council under the General Assembly. Others are reserving their judgment for now.

While there is little support for continuing the Commission on Sustainable Development in its current form, some are still asking if there is a way to strengthen it.

Regarding UNEP, there is universal support for strengthening UNEP, but divergence remains on how to achieve this. Some point to universal membership, while others call for transforming it into a UN specialized agency.

Many are also calling for a strengthened financial base for UNEP.

Finally, there has been broad support – as part of strengthening IFSD – to forge closer links between science and policymaking.

On Chapter 5 -regarding the framework for action and follow-up.

It has been proposed that “framework for action” sections in earlier chapters be consolidated into a single framework.

Regarding contents of Chapter 5, it is clear to me that there is convergence of views on the seven plus priority areas.

These priority areas have already been highlighted and were in the original zero draft.

Also highlighted was the importance of sustainable consumption and production.

Additionally, there have been extensive additions made to Chapter 5.

There is now both additional text in existing sections, as well as entire new sections. 15 proposed new areas have been added to the draft.

Distinguished Delegates,

A few other points come out in the amendments that I would like to highlight:

First, is a stronger emphasis on the social pillar of sustainable development.

Another is recognizing the valuable contribution of ecosystems, and their services to economic and social well-being.

A third is the critical importance of technological innovation, as well as private sector entrepreneurship and investment, in moving towards sustainable development.

A compendium of voluntary commitments was also emphasized.

I also note that, in several of your proposed amendments, we see an emerging scope of aspirational goals or targets.

An important element of Chapter 5 is the proposal to launch sustainable development goals.

There is an emerging convergence of views that at the very least Rio+20 can launch a process leading to the SDGs and define the principles by which they will be governed.

There are three observations I would like to make on this matter.

The first is my own: that agreeing to SDGs at Rio+20 would send a strong expression of renewed commitment for sustainable development. And we know this is our objective.

The second is a point made in one of the proposed amendments to the text, namely, that for such commitment to have credibility and impact, we need to be clear on means of implementation. What support is the international community prepared to provide?

Third, agreement on SDGs, as well as an agreement on green economy will have important implications for the future institutional framework for sustainable development.

So it is important that if agreement is reached on the first two, then institutional responsibilities for follow-up must be clearly defined.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

I hope I have captured some of the critical aspects of the draft outcome document… and how the chapters reinforce one another.

I wish you luck as you proceed into negotiations.

Your tasks will be arduous, and your historical responsibilities high.

Rio+20 must agree on an outcome that our leaders will be proud to sign off on.

My staff and I are here to support you in any way possible to achieve a focused, ambitious, and action-oriented historic outcome at Rio+20.

All inhabitants of the planet, the generations of today and tomorrow, deserve our best effort.